“Not only could this new technology lead to significant advances in food safety for
everyone, but also this ETF grant hopefully will help MicroZAP grow into a thriving
bio-tech company that creates new jobs and economic development opportunities for
Lubbock,” Dewhurst said.

MicroZAP uses directional microwaves delivered at varying doses and intensities in
order to target disease-causing microorganisms with great precision. The technology
has even demonstrated the ability to kill deadly antibiotic-resistant bacteria (MRSA).

“The EFT funds will allow us to move the MicroZap technology forward, thus providing
safer food products in the supermarket, which will ultimately reduce the number of
food-borne illnesses and lead to safer food on America’s dinner tables,” said Mindy
Brashears, director of the International Center for Food Industry Excellence.

The company has already had discussions with larger corporations regarding new technology
applications.

“It’s this kind of research, development and commercialization that will help universities
like Texas Tech achieve Tier One status in Texas. Creating more Tier One universities
is critical to our state’s future; not only will they provide greater opportunities
in higher education for our fast-growing population, they will lead to more life-saving
and life-improving innovation that can be commercialized and create new jobs,” Dewhurst
said.

Duncan said the announcement reflects an essential step toward advancing Texas' position
as a leader in new technology.

“This research presents tremendous potential for our community, our nation’s food
supply and our university’s future Tier One status. I appreciate the leadership of
Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst, Governor Rick Perry and House Speaker Joe Straus and their
vision, which recognizes the importance of these programs in Texas.”

MicroZAP will receive $500,000 at the beginning of the company’s contract with the
state. As the company achieves milestones agreed to in the final contract, it may
receive up to $1 million in additional ETF award funds. The state will take an equity
position in the company for its investment.

The ETF was created by the Texas Legislature in 2005. The governor, lieutenant governor and speaker of the House must jointly
approve each ETF grant based upon the review and recommendations of a 17-member
advisory committee made up of leaders in the fields of business and research.

[TTTExperts id=1]

Tier One

Achieving Tier One status will have a transformative effect on Texas Tech. It will
put Texas Tech into an elite category of universities, providing our students with
unmatched educational opportunities. Attaining Tier One status will not only transform
Texas Tech University, it will expand the scope of our research to meet the worlds
needs and create an economic boom for Lubbock, West Texas and the state.

The journey to Tier One status began in 2009 when the Texas Higher Education Coordinating
Board (THECB) designated Texas Tech and six other schools as emerging research universities.